[BoiseAirport]

:previous: All Boise needs is a daily flight to Vancouver and we are INTERNATIONAL baby! I can see it happening some day in the not too distant future.

I don't think there is much of a market for Canada service. When Boise sees International service it will probably be to Mexico.

As much as I would love to see it, I think we'd be lucky to see any form of international service within the next 25 years.

Despite the fact that there are populous cities in Canada close by, the actual traffic numbers are extremely tiny. Mexico is significantly less likely, not just because there are less number of people traveling to Mexico versus Canada from Boise, but the fares would be significantly lower.

Boise won't be an international airport for a long time. Hate to be the party pooper.

[CaliforniaKid]

As much as I would love to see it, I think we'd be lucky to see any form of international service within the next 25 years.

Despite the fact that there are populous cities in Canada close by, the actual traffic numbers are extremely tiny. Mexico is significantly less likely, not just because there are less number of people traveling to Mexico versus Canada from Boise, but the fares would be significantly lower.

Boise won't be an international airport for a long time. Hate to be the party pooper.

No one can predict the future.. Don't forget that Boise is the third largest city in the northwest. If and when Boise get's any bigger, which I'm sure it will, there will be a bigger move to an international airport. I for one think that Boise is the best city to live in the northwest.. You just can't beat the weather there and the beautiful mountains. :tup:

[Visualize]

^^^If anybody knows I'm sure it would be the dude that used to be called BoiseAirport, has a plane as his image, and digitally models the airport for fun in his spare time. :rolleyes:

[Boiseguy]

I think the customs stuff is for cargo.. not passengers..

I don't think boise will be getting international service anytime soon either, we're surrounded by too many other LARGE established international airports.
for it to happen, I would think we'd need to be well over a million people in the region to support some sort of hub first and foremost. Seeing as how salt lake city and denver aren't too far away.. that just won't be happening. But what boise's airport could and should be doing is improving to capture cargo. Boise's airport could very easily be the memphis of the west in terms of cargo traffic...especially when the other nearby larger airports are already busy with passengers..

[Cottonwood]

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/07/26/1281003/treasure-valley-poised-to-expand.html

Treasure Valley poised to expand export markets, study says
By Bill Roberts - broberts@idahostatesman.com
Published: 07/26/10

The Treasure Valley could position itself for more secure and sustained employment by improving its export markets, according to a study by the Brookings Institution.

Demands for manufactured goods by foreign markets is growing at a rate that far outpaces the country's economy as a whole, the study said.

The five-county Boise region could capitalize on that, because it has been ahead of most other metro regions in the percent of its goods and services that go to those markets, the study said.



Read more: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/07/26/1281003/treasure-valley-poised-to-expand.html#ixzz0up4wKnVc

[Cottonwood]

Rumors....Trader Joes building in downtown? Or has Whole Foods changed the location downtown they want to build a store? A gourmet Albertsons????



http://idahobusinessreview.com/blog/2010/07/27/specialty-grocery-store-planned-for-downtown-boise-2/
Specialty grocery store planned for downtown Boise
by Jennifer Gonzalez
Published: July 27,2010
Time posted: 9:46 am

[boi2socal]

:previous:
That's far too small for a Whole Foods. Seems about right for a Trader Joe's.

[Cottonwood]

I don't have access to the article but according to the part of the address listed it seems like the lot is that large one between Idaho and Bannock where The Met Condos were going to be built. That lot doesn't seem large enough for a 25,000 SF Store and a parking lot so hopefully the parking is underground or above the store.

[Visualize]

I just did a rough measurement with google earth and the lot where the Met was proposed, from curb-to-curb, is about 99,620 sf.

To put this is perspective, the news station building across the street is roughly 29,700 sf, and half the lot is parking.

Not looking good for anything urban. Hopefully they design it with two entrances, one for the parking lot, and one on the corner for the street. That will at least improve pedestrian access and provide a better chance of redeveloping the parking lot at some point.

[Boise Benchman]

Hmmm... The skies over southern Boise to Mountain Home will be much quieter without the F-35s now.

UNFORTUNATELY so will the cash registers that could have helped bolster the Idaho economy if the project would have went forward...

I was personally hoping they would be here, but on to other hopes now.

[Boisekid]

Well that's good news!! I'll take any project that will bring any jobs. It'll be nice to see a Trader Joes (i'm assuming?) in Boise. Also, the whole F-35 thing isn't 100% dead yet, but its most likely not coming. Really too bad, this area really could've used those high-paying jobs to jump the local economy back on track...

[Cottonwood]

Well that's good news!! I'll take any project that will bring any jobs. It'll be nice to see a Trader Joes (i'm assuming?) in Boise. Also, the whole F-35 thing isn't 100% dead yet, but its most likely not coming. Really too bad, this area really could've used those high-paying jobs to jump the local economy back on track...

I feel the same way about the f-35 not being dead yet. The local press has kind of over sensationalized the whole topic with doom and gloom headlines and then this article from the Statesman this morning indicates that Idaho can still be in the running for future f-35 missions because only a small fraction of the 1700 jets are going to one of the 3 finalists announced yesterday. It is too bad because the other locations all suck except for maybe the Vermont location. The Boise peeps who opposed this and live in the path of planes near the airport are pretty happy I bet.
It looks like Gowen Field is in the running for C-27J's and there is still the A-10's going on.


http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/07/30/1285598/costs-doom-f-35s-for-idaho.html

[Cottonwood]

http://www.ktvb.com/news/Basque-President-in-town-for-Jaialdi-2010-99601004.html
Basque President in town for Jaialdi 2010

by Jamie Grey
Idaho's NewsChannel 7

KTVB.COM

Posted on July 29, 2010 at 10:25 PM

Updated today at 8:17 AM


BOISE -- The President of the Basque Country, Patzi Lopez, visited Boise for the very first time to enjoy Jaialdi. KTVB sat down with President Lopez to discuss his impressions of Boise and about American-Basque relations.

Like others visiting from the Basque Country, Lopez first was excited to see how big Jaialdi is in Boise and how large the Basque community is in Idaho.

"Boise's embraced the Basque people and has helped them and let them prosper," Lopez said. "They always have told me about Jaialdi, but when you come here, it really does surprise you."

[Evo5Boise]

Ya I was a little bummed about the F-35 news. I think it would have been great for the area. I live in the airplane path for Boise and I have F-15s flying by and rumbling the house all the time. Six in one, half a dozen in the other to me if we added F-35s.

[Sawtooth]

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/029-6.jpg







http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/031-8.jpg











http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/054-4.jpg








http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/021-3.jpg








http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/016-6.jpg









http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/028-8.jpg








http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/129-2.jpg







http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j214/Idahomajesty/058-3.jpg

[Visualize]

Sawtooth, I suggest...or maybe more request, that you document the downtown bar scene on like a friday or saturday night. I was down there last night and it blew San Jose out of the water, no comparison. It might add a little life to your lazy sunday morning pics. :D

[Sawtooth]

Sawtooth, I suggest...or maybe more request, that you document the downtown bar scene on like a friday or saturday night. I was down there last night and it blew San Jose out of the water, no comparison. It might add a little life to your lazy sunday morning pics. :D

I have attempted a few times in the past to take night photos of the weekend party scene downtown but because I have to use a tripod it gets kind of tricky with the crowds, narrow sidewalks, and friends who suddenly appear out of nowhere and want to talk. I will attempt it again though.

And, what is the issue with my lazy sunday morning pics?:whip: :D
The pics I posted above were taken on days other than a Sunday,:) but if you want to see more street level excitement then you will get it in the thread I will be posting this week. I have noticed that a lot of photography threads in the city photo section have become more like paparazzi threads rather than just showcasing buildings and architecture. My Boise summer thread is going to have a healthy mix of all of it, people and buildings. Take a peek into the city photo threads this week and leave a comment!

[SLC Projects]

Whatever that 6-story castle looking building is ( 2nd to last photo ) I like it. :tup:

[el conquistador]

Whatever that 6-story castle looking building is ( 2nd to last photo ) I like it. :tup:

That's the old Idanha Hotel, it was built around the turn of the 20th century. It was turned into apartments recently, my wife and I stayed a night there a couple years before it was converted, very rustic! :D

[boisecynic]

Post moved to the next page...

[Visualize]

Yeah, no disrespect Sawtooth, I love the eclectic mix of photos you post, and agree with your paparazzi statement. I do imagine it would be hard to capture the bar scene, which is why I haven't attempted to do it. I'm looking forward to your thread so it can back up all the bragging I do about Boise on a regular basis. :cheers:

[boisecynic]

I moved this post here from the bottom of page 246 because it got buried. Hope this isn't a SSP netiquette infraction. It's this week's news due to PDS having an inspection scheduled today.

36th St Pedestrian Bridge held up by contract dispute regarding Erosion & Sediment Control permit requirements?


According to MSM reports work was supposed to begin last week. Well, nothing has been done, so I took a look at Boise's PDS site. Found this:

http://pdsonline.cityofboise.org/pdsonline/details.aspx?id=ESC10-00523

Click on the activities tab. Also, under the documents tab is a waiver request regarding construction of a sediment barrier at the river's edge. It seems the contractor doesn't want to build it and PDS is demanding it.

Ah, the joys of the construction business. :(

Edit 8-11: Permit replaced with new permit:

http://pdsonline.cityofboise.org/pdsonline/details.aspx?id=ESC10-00600

[Cottonwood]

The August edition of Outside Magazine ranks Boise #1 city in the West and overall #1 in the USA. Even though the economy may not be currently on fire, Outside Mag realizes that Boise is the best city for outdoor fun with some of the best outdoor rec spots in city limits and at our doorstep.

http://outsideonline.com/travel/travel-ta-travel-sidwcmdev_150668.html

http://outsideonline.com/travel/travel-ta-idaho-boise-travel-sidwcmdev_150669.html


The city is home to nearly 2,000 acres of parks and a 25-mile greenbelt. The outlying areas feel a bit bland, but the older neighborhoods have that Boulder vibe—cruiser bikes, farmers' markets, and prayer flags—only with reasonably priced homes.
THE PLAYGROUND: With a few play waves already in city limits, a $6.7 million white­water park in the works, and life-list runs on the Payette and Salmon within a two-hour drive, the paddling is exceptional and only getting better. There's also a healthy triathlon community and a robust road-biking ............

[Cottonwood]

Boise and artistic expression seem to be synonymous anymore.
It is First Thursday and yet another busy evening in downtown. Alive after Five was awesome last night....our downtown kicks major ass!!!



http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/08/05/1292368/find-random-acts-of-public-art.html

First Thursday gallery stroll: 30 artists create murals in a Downtown Boise parking garage
Artists take over the Idaho Building parking garage for the Boise Mural Art Project.
BY DANA OLAND - doland@idahostatesman.com
Copyright: © 2010 Idaho Statesman
Published: 08/05/10

[mikelwallace85]

Hi,
I've been following this thread off and on for a couple years, and just wondering if anyone knows if any projects will ever be completed?
Mainly Civic Plaza expansion (The model shows three buildings along Front infront of the existing buildings). http://www.mve-architects.com/portfolio/pr/34_Civic-Plaza
C Squared Between 5th-6th.
Capitol Terrace

I've been keeping track of the Boise Tower site, and wish it would be bought and completed. There's got to be someone in Boise with the pull to get it done.
Also, Downtown REALLY needs more apartments. There are a few, but $1200, $2400, $3500?!?! Seriously?

[Sawtooth]

Welcome to the forum mikelwallace85. You must be looking at high end apartments because I have several friends who live in apts downtown and they pay less than 1000 per month.



edit: the pics will be up soon, I have to transfer them within my photobucket account so the links I posted here will not work.


Boisekid, you're not stuck over in Rexburg for the summer are you?

[Boisekid]

Whole Foods confirms plans for Boise store

After years of on-again off-again negotiations, a Whole Foods Market is planned to open across from the University of Idaho Water Center in about 2 1/2 years, said Rick Duggan, director of design and construction for Schlosser Development, on Friday.
“We never lost interest,” Duggan said. “The marketplace adjusted the scale of Whole Foods ... and the timing of the project.”
Schlosser Development of Austin, Tex., built the Whole Foods Corporate headquarters and flagship store in Austin.
They’re aiming to have their conditional-use permit application filed with the city by the end of August, said Boise Planning Director Hal Simmons. Plans for the Boise store and its accompanying complex have changed multiple times since the November 2006 announcement that the store was coming to Boise.
“They never gave up on the sight, but they certainly took it off the table for a while,” said Boisean Jim Kissler, CEO of Norco Inc., who owns the 6 1/2-acre parcel between Front and Myrtle streets.
The original project planned for a 55,000-square-foot grocery store with a 17-story hotel/condo tower, which was later trimmed to a seven-story building with 35 condos and a hotel.
“We have now found, two years later, that the market for anything more than a grocery store and some retail is not timely,” Duggan said.
For more information on this story, read Saturday's Statesman.

[Boisekid]

Not as big as the original plans which is a bummer, but i'm pumped to see a whole foods come to Boise. It's nice to see some projects finally have concrete starting dates (JUMP, COBE bldg, Whole Foods, etc)

[GrandTeton]

It finally looks like Boise's economy cogs may be spinning again!

[mikelwallace85]

Welcome to the forum mikelwallace85. You must be looking at high end apartments because I have several friends who live in apts downtown and they pay less than 1000 per month.



edit: the pics will be up soon, I have to transfer them within my photobucket account so the links I posted here will not work.


Boisekid, you're not stuck over in Rexburg for the summer are you?

Thank you Sawtooth.
I know there's cheaper units like at Idaho, Idanha, CW Moore, but the only ones that come available are 1 bed. I finally found a 2bed at Civic Plaza for $610 and moving in soon. IMO developers of the rental units focus too much on couples. My sister and I didn't want to share a bedroom lol. There should be more 2 or 3 bed affordable units to get families downtown. We wanted to be downtown due to ease of access for my power chair.

I am stoked that Whole Foods is coming! Would have been amazing if the original plan was built, but I guess we'll take what we can :). Maybe if they build the structure with future "rise" in mind, it could work later on. Too bad Winco didn't do that.

[GrandTeton]

:previous:
I agree.

I think more apartments need to be added to downtown, not just condos.

[Boisekid]

In the statesman today the owner is saving a small parcel of land on the myrtle side to be developed in 'phase 2.' He ruled out a hotel and condos, but said student housing is a strong possibility. It'll be 7-9 stories, not bad for that spot imo.

And no saw, i'm not stuck in Rexburg thank goodness! I won't be going back there, i'm transferring to Univ of Utah

[mikelwallace85]

I saw that in the statesman about phase two of the Whole Foods site, or would it be phase 3? Since the market will be first on Front/Ave. B., then a retail aspect on the corner of Broadway/Front.
Student housing would be really nice right there. And think of the views of the park if it went 7 stories!
The JUMP plans look awesome.:tup:

[Sawtooth]

http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showthread.php?t=183946

[el conquistador]

:previous:
I agree.

I think more apartments need to be added to downtown, not just condos.

What happened to the apartment building that was approved to be added on top of the parking garage at 8th and Main? Did the whiners in the Washington Mutual building finally complain it into oblivion? That would have been nice infill and a more affordable option from what I understood. :shrug:

[mikelwallace85]

What happened to the apartment building that was approved to be added on top of the parking garage at 8th and Main? Did the whiners in the Washington Mutual building finally complain it into oblivion? That would have been nice infill and a more affordable option from what I understood. :shrug:

I spoke with the people at Parklane (owners of the Capitol Terrace building 8th & Main), and they said the project isn't dead, they're just waiting for a better time. :shrug: What would the Chase Tower people have to complain about? Don't want to look at other buildings? Don't live in the city!

[el conquistador]

I spoke with the people at Parklane (owners of the Capitol Terrace building 8th & Main), and they said the project isn't dead, they're just waiting for a better time. :shrug: What would the Chase Tower people have to complain about? Don't want to look at other buildings? Don't live in the city!

That was the complaint! The ones on the west side would lose their constitutionally-protected right to a view!! :koko:

[Cottonwood]

:previous: Great post Sawtooth. The Criterium pics are nice, some other cities nearby may think they are great for biking but they aren't in Boise's league.

[Cottonwood]

http://idahobusinessreview.com/blog/2010/08/09/u-of-i-plans-third-year-law-program-in-boise/

U of I plans third-year law program in Boise
by IBR Contributor
Published: August 9,2010
Time posted: 11:43 am
Tags: Concordia University, law, University of Idaho

By Ysabel Bilbao

[mikelwallace85]

That was the complaint! The ones on the west side would lose their constitutionally-protected right to a view!! :koko:

Constitutionally protected?? :haha:

[el conquistador]

Constitutionally protected?? :haha:

Yeah, very T.I.C. on my part, but that's how it feels when someone uses that as a reason against good infill (like the folks on the east end of the MK buildings not wanting a multi-story condo there, like it was going to magically block out the sun...)

[Cottonwood]

http://www.boiseweekly.com/boise/quick-say-it-three-times-fast-state-street-streetscape/Content?oid=1723912
Quick, Say it Three Times Fast: State Street Streetscape
City eyes a new look for major road

Jensen drafted two design concepts for State Street between Eighth and 16th streets: an urban streetscape and a parkway streetscape. The differences were subtle, but at July's meeting, the CCDC board liked the urban streetscape a bit more.

"The construction cost will be a little higher, but maintenance costs will be less," said Kushlan. The first draft estimates that the cost per block might be $239,000.

Each block could see a 9-foot-wide sidewalk and up to eight trees and four historic Granville street lamps on each side of State Street. And intersections could include new features too, not unlike the Basque Block: scored, colored concrete yielding a brick-like facade with a centerpiece featuring a logo or artwork molded into the pavement.

[boisecynic]

Good article from BW but why, oh why can't the old school media post higher res pics? I guess this pic is a rendering of the proposal:

Hotlinked:
http://www.boiseweekly.com/imager/a-street-of-dreams-according-to-jensenbelts-vision-of-an-urban-streetscape/b/original/1723914/e8ea/news_feature1-2.jpg

Here's some more detailed info from bad old CCDC. Note: PDF

http://www.ccdcboise.com/InformationForDevelopers/documents/CapitolBlvdPacket_003.pdf

Direct link to JensenBelts Associates

http://www.jensenbelts.com/

[mikelwallace85]

:previous:
Love it. They should do that on Main/Fairview as well. That whole end of town looks desolate. :yes:

[Cottonwood]

:previous:
Love it. They should do that on Main/Fairview as well. That whole end of town looks desolate. :yes:

That area which is near the 30th Street Urban Renewal area the city is working on, will probably get a facelift once the urban renewal and the 30th Street Extension takes place. I think that forgotten area west of downtown is a gold mine for developers once the economy picks up.


This might be a sign of good things to come:
http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/08/13/1301435/idahos-economic-prospects-look.html
Idaho's economic prospects look up
The revenue trend has been steady in the past months, the state's chief economist says.
BY WILLIAM L. SPENCE - LEWISTON TRIBUNE
Published: 08/13/10

Employment and income are two key factors in turning that around, Ferguson said. The prospects for both are better now than in December. In fact, IHS Global Insight - the firm Idaho uses for its national forecast data - suggests the Gem State will be the nation's top job creator over the next two years and the third-best for the 2012-2015 time period, in terms of percentage job growth.
Read more: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/08/13/1301435/idahos-economic-prospects-look.html#ixzz0wVH7anP8

[Chaisem]

http://www.boiseweekly.com/CityDesk/archives/2010/08/13/special-grocery-store-planned-for-boises-west-end

[Sawtooth]

shhhhhhhhhhhhh

[City Of Trees]

http://www.boiseweekly.com/CityDesk/archives/2010/08/13/special-grocery-store-planned-for-boises-west-endPlease oh please be a Trader Joe's.

Regarding the State Street plan, I like it, and it would be made much easier if they would do something I've been harping on for years: make State Street a one way street and couple it with Jefferson Street. Then you'd even be able to narrow that road by a lane if you wish.

[Cottonwood]

:previous: Trader Joes..or whatever the market will be...Maybe this is a sign of things to come to that end of downtown, bring on the redevelopment:cheers:

[Sawtooth]

http://www.boiseweekly.com/CityDesk/archives/2010/08/13/special-grocery-store-planned-for-boises-west-end

Please oh please be a Trader Joe's.



Bend has a Trader Joes and that is the closest store to Boise, so we could be on their distribution route. About 5 years ago Supervalu aka Albertsons started up the Sunflower Market, specializing in organic food, and those stores are typically in the same square foot range as this proposal. Supervalu of course has their Albertsons LLC headquarters here so which will it be, TJ's or Sunflower? I believe some of the old Albertsons locations in Utah have been converted into Sunflower Markets.


I prefer Trader Joes, I've been in a Sunflower before, they're nothing too impressive and they don't compare at all to the Boise Co-op and Boise is a TJ's kind of town.


Here's some info http://www.allbusiness.com/retail-trade/miscellaneous-retail/4439026-1.html

[Cottonwood]

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/08/17/1305701/boise-state-college-of-idaho-earn.html
Idaho ranked among U.S. News & World Report's top national universities; BSU a top regional
By KATY MOELLER - kmoeller@idahostatesman.com Published: 08/17/10


.....University of Idaho ranked 81st among top public schools.


.....Boise State was ranked 51st among regional public universities (17th in the West).
Boise State University was also listed as one of the "up-and-coming" regional universities, which have made "promising and innovative changes." Others universities that made the western list: Abilene Christian University, Chapman University, St. Edward's University, California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo and Trinity University.















Read more: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/08/17/1305701/boise-state-college-of-idaho-earn.html#ixzz0wt2zQh1H

[ianjt]

I noticed that BSU removed the old Arbiter building. The area next to the new aquatics complex is blocked off now. Does anyone know of anything in the works there? Also, what about the Business building?

[Cottonwood]

I noticed that BSU removed the old Arbiter building. The area next to the new aquatics complex is blocked off now. Does anyone know of anything in the works there? Also, what about the Business building?

You mean the COBE on Capitol Blvd? The other day I drove by and the old hotel is roped off and there is a fenced area with equipment.

[mikelwallace85]

It will be exciting to see something go in between 15th/16th.
I just got a letter about something at C.W. Moore Plaza to view plans for the Whole Foods site. I live at Civic Plaza, so I guess they want input from neighbors? I might go.
Something I noticed, infront of the 252 building here, the concrete pad is for sale for hotel development. That would be awesome, especially if there was retail that opened on the pedestrian areas :tup:

[Boisekid]

http://gardnerahlquist.com/Portals/0/images/New%20Portico%20Office%20Tower%20Flyer_Flyer.pdf


Not Downtown but still big. The hotel has been mentioned here before but i drove past the site on Franklin the past week and theres big dirt piles moving around and some fencing going up. Don't know if this is a sign of the hotel soon breaking ground or what. Does anybody else have ANY info on this hotel?? It'll be nice to have another 4-diamond hotel other than The Grove

[andyroo]

I noticed that BSU removed the old Arbiter building. The area next to the new aquatics complex is blocked off now. Does anyone know of anything in the works there? Also, what about the Business building?

They are adding the second edition of the parking garage where the arbiter building was. Once it is complete the garage will also house the student media area, much like the current garage which houses the parking offices. I also heard that the COBE building will start sometime this fall, haven't heard of any official date. I always thought that they were going to start demo on the inn this summer but that didn't happen...who knows.

[ianjt]

They are adding the second edition of the parking garage where the arbiter building was. Once it is complete the garage will also house the student media area, much like the current garage which houses the parking offices. I also heard that the COBE building will start sometime this fall, haven't heard of any official date. I always thought that they were going to start demo on the inn this summer but that didn't happen...who knows.

Are they planning to make it as big as the first part? If so, I hope that it doesn't detract too much from the entrance to the university from Lincoln. I also noticed that they are tearing up the front of the SUB. I wonder what that's all about.

[andyroo]

If I remember right the second garage won't be quite as big, but I don't think the actual dimensions were that much difference, just a small margin.
according to boise state's SUB website

SUB Projects Update
The Student Union is undergoing some exciting construction projects throughout this Fall 2010.

Transit Center
The exterior west side of the Student Union is now closed and fenced off for the construction of the new campus Transit Center. The Transit Center will be connected to the Student Union and will serve as the central bus and public transportation center for campus. The project will continue through mid December, 2010.

I also read back in July this article in the statesman...
http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/07/07/1258546/a-new-route-merits-a-fresh-look.html
I think it would be awesome if they could connect downtown to bsu. As a student living about 2 blocks away from the SUB, I could guarantee I'd use that very frequently. I wonder if the transit center will be built with the potential to accommodate a streetcar...

[Cottonwood]

U of I Law School opening in the old Ada County Courthouse after a renovation. Good news, two new law schools (U of I and Concordia) opening in downtown.

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/08/24/1313334/u-of-idaho-gets-1-million-donation.html

[Cottonwood]

:previous: in addition:


http://www.boiseweekly.com/CityDesk/archives/2010/08/24/a-million-reasons-to-renovate-the-historic-ada-county-courthouse

University of Idaho --A Million Reasons to Renovate the Historic Ada County Courthouse


http://www.boiseweekly.com/images/blogimages/2010/08/24/1282691905-dsc_0014.jpg
http://www.boiseweekly.com/images/blogimages/2010/08/24/1282691905-dsc_0014.jpg

[alphawolf]

So, an addition to the structure as well? Looks like it's going to keep in line with the architectural style of the original building. Glad to hear that it's going to be put to use once again as well.

[mikelwallace85]

That's awesome that there will be TWO law schools, and TWO grocery stores going in. SO exciting!!!
I noticed scaffolding on the Idaho side of the Capitol Terrace building. What's going on there?

[Boisekid]

Boise State unveils Bronco Stadium master plan with 53,000 seats

By Chadd Cripe
ccripe@idahostatemsan.com

Boise State athletic director Gene Bleymaier on Friday unveiled a master plan for Bronco Stadium that eventually would increase capacity to 53,000 seats and likely cost more than $100 million.

However, the school doesn't have a timeline for the project — which would come in phases and include a new football training room/equipment room/locker room/office complex — and hasn't raised any money yet.

The plan includes lowering the field to put a new bowl of seats at field level, two seating expansions and the football facility in the north end zone, club seats and a new concourse on the east side and horseshoeing the south end. The current capacity is 33,500.

The north end has become the preferred expansion end because of the difficulty of building on the south end, where the current football facilities are, Bleymaier said.

The first step is to raise $2.5 million to complete Dona Larsen Park, the new track and high school football complex.

Bleymaier and football coach Chris Petersen emphasized the importance of this project for the future of the program.

About 550 boosters are set to listen to the stadium presentation Friday night.

"Our plea tonight is we need to get this done ASAP," Bleymaier said. "We're moving into the Mountain West. We've raised the bar. We're in tall company right now. If we want to stay in the Top 10 in the country, we've got to fill in the gaps. Right now we're an outlier — plain and simple.



Read more: http://voices.idahostatesman.com/2010/08/27/ccripe/boise_state_unveils_bronco_stadium_master_plan_53000_seats_new_f#ixzz0xsLOZhC8



http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs159.ash2/41289_460308486420_219804681420_6858079_1375073_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs185.ash2/44790_460310241420_219804681420_6858101_3672473_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs428.snc4/47087_460311191420_219804681420_6858112_7155305_n.jpg



No timetable set, but that is one impressive looking stadium. With Kustra and Bleymaier at the helm, I expect this to get done. The boosters will come through just like they did the skybox. This will be a very impressive for the University as well as the City. Lets get this project funded and underway!!

[Evo5Boise]

I'm more than excited to see the expansion but I'm not too huge on the design. It doesn't flow well at all in my opinion.

[Visualize]

It doesn't flow very well now but maybe in the looooong-term, future expansion will continue off of this design, particularly if the east side stands were rebuilt. They have to start somewhere if it is ever their intent to make this the mecca of college football.

Also, because it's a standalone structure, it looks like an awesome place to have outdoor concerts.

[CaliforniaKid]

What happened to the U?? I thought the U shape was a great deal cheaper too.. That north end structure does doesn't cut it without those curves to complement the south side... Plus it blocks the view of the mountains.. :(

The better and cheaper way.... For now at least.
http://i27.tinypic.com/1zoyypi.jpg

[Evo5Boise]

What's funny is the article even says that in the plans are horseshoeing the south end zone. However, it shows nothing of it in the drawings. Only that they are preferring the North end zone.

I just think it makes everything look so detached from each other. How about incorporating some flow? Even the lower seats they make look like a different lower section.

I am more than happy that this program is growing and this stadium is being addressed, I just think they could come up with something better.

[alphawolf]

I don't mind the design at all, even if it doesn't flow. The sharp edges are better on this than on other projects I've seen before. Too bad they didn't include a parking garage attached to it or close by at least.

[boisecynic]

Sweet! Good for Boise and BSU. But something no one has mentioned. How are they going to get another 20,000 in and out of the area? What about parking? Time to widen the Broadway bridge?

I tried riding the shuttle bus to the game from downtown once. It was already full when it got to 10th St location where I was waiting.

[CaliforniaKid]

What's funny is the article even says that in the plans are horseshoeing the south end zone. However, it shows nothing of it in the drawings. Only that they are preferring the North end zone.

I just think it makes everything look so detached from each other. How about incorporating some flow? Even the lower seats they make look like a different lower section.

I am more than happy that this program is growing and this stadium is being addressed, I just think they could come up with something better.

Yes... My belief however is that their project is unrealistic... What they should focus on is the horseshoe for now (the cheaper approach first) and then move on to the bigger stuff. In the article, it seems they wanted to focus on the north end first and then focus on the horseshoe last.

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/08/28/1318526/field-of-dreams.html

The economy is still very weak... Therefore go for the easy first, then the more complicated last. That is how you will get people to buy into it...

[Visualize]

I don't mind the design at all, even if it doesn't flow. The sharp edges are better on this than on other projects I've seen before. Too bad they didn't include a parking garage attached to it or close by at least.

I agree, the stands are still symmetrical looking north and south and look good in my opinion. It actually kind of gives the stadium a throwback baseball field feel to it as opposed to the cookie cutter stadiums of the 60's. Granted it's not a baseball field but it gives off that vibe to me which has been very successful as of late.

[Visualize]

Sweet! Good for Boise and BSU. But something no one has mentioned. How are they going to get another 20,000 in and out of the area? What about parking? Time to widen the Broadway bridge?

I tried riding the shuttle bus to the game from downtown once. It was already full when it got to 10th St location where I was waiting.


I think downtown would be able to handle a significant percentage of the additional fans for parking since most of the games are on Saturday or late in the evening. Downtown employs 40,000 people, most of whom drive alone, whereas people typically go to games with numerous people so the numbers somewhat work out. Due to 9th, Myrtle, and Front having so many lanes they could make a designated bus lane on game days that looped to Broadway and back. Broadway is definitely where things get ugly though and people would still need to walk a bit, but that could probably be improved with further thought. Should the offices along ParkCenter Blvd desire, utilizing all the parking lots along there would be a good option too.

[ianjt]

I really like this design, and I am excited to see how much of this can be done. I have plenty of friends who hate on BSU's football because they think it detracts from academics. But I think that this is great for BSU. The more seats there are means more money made for the university as a whole. Add in some publicity from a more respectable football program, and you get attention that BSU deserves. And you also get money from outside sources, since the state doesn't like giving it out to BSU :P

[alphawolf]

Sweet! Good for Boise and BSU. But something no one has mentioned. How are they going to get another 20,000 in and out of the area? What about parking? Time to widen the Broadway bridge?

I tried riding the shuttle bus to the game from downtown once. It was already full when it got to 10th St location where I was waiting.

Broadway bridge should have been widened a long time ago. The school, the city, and ACHD should focus on a bypass of the intersection of University and Broadway to create a better flow of traffic coming from the I-184.

[Cottonwood]

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/08/31/1322214/developer-moves-forward-on-halted.html

Developer moves forward on halted Boise condo project
By Sandra Forester - sforester@idahostatesman.com
Published: 08/31/10



For more information, visit www.crescentrim.com.



Read more: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/08/31/1322214/developer-moves-forward-on-halted.html#ixzz0yDPSZMqQ

[boisecynic]

Regarding the proposed north end zone and its lack of symmetry: I finally realized this: The Stueckle Center extends north past the current stands and this might be a problem for installing raker beams like they did for the south curve.

[Evo5Boise]

So, anybody else stoked for this Monday night's game?

[ianjt]

So, anybody else stoked for this Monday night's game?

Definitely! GO BRONCOS! :notacrook: :cheers::banana:

[Boisekid]

Never been this nervous for a football game. Not that I don't have faith, but there is just sooo much riding on this game. I'm more nervous for this than I was both Fiesta Bowls....GO BRONCOS!!!

[CaliforniaKid]

Broncos will win against VT... :notacrook:

[CaliforniaKid]

Broncos will win against VT... :notacrook:


Like I said.. BSU won... :D

[Boisekid]

AMAZING Game!!! Go Broncos!

[Cottonwood]

It is that time of the year again, the largest art fair in the Northwest and one of the finest outdoor art in the park type events I have ever been to.



http://www.boiseartmuseum.org/events/images/AIP2010logo.jpg


http://www.boiseartmuseum.org/events/AIPinfo.php


http://www.boiseweekly.com/boise/56th-annual-art-in-the-park/Content?oid=1767252

[el conquistador]

It is that time of the year again, the largest art fair in the Northwest and one of the finest outdoor art in the park type events I have ever been to.



http://www.boiseartmuseum.org/events/images/AIP2010logo.jpg


http://www.boiseartmuseum.org/events/AIPinfo.php


http://www.boiseweekly.com/boise/56th-annual-art-in-the-park/Content?oid=1767252


Mrs Conquistador and I will be there Friday! :D

[Cottonwood]

I heard about this a few months ago. Seems like Boise is becoming the organic capital of the Mountain West taking into consideration this, and what we already have in place in the valley as far as local organic products.


http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/09/09/1333551/organic-and-natural-products-delivery.html
Organic and natural products delivery service of opens store in Boise
By Sandra Forester - sforester@idahostatesman.com
Published: 09/09/10

Brown Box Organics Co., a grocery delivery service with certified organic produce in the Treasure Valley, expanded in late August with the opening of its first store at 36th Street and Hill Road in Boise.

Read more: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/09/09/1333551/organic-and-natural-products-delivery.html#ixzz0z3rMcPoz

[Visualize]

Soooooooo......Anyone know what is going in at the corner of Vista and Kootenai where that cool little Moxie Java used to be?

[Bodo_business]

I heard a fast food place is going in there....Jack in the Box if memory serves me correct. Pretty sad when you come to think about it. Trade a historic building with totally unique architecture for another national box. I'm all about private property rights, but the owners of Vista Village deserve any bad press they got when they tore that place down.

[Visualize]

Thanks for the info. And I totally agree. There goes my hopes that they would redeem themselves....but it's much better than nothing.

[boisecynic]

Soooooooo......Anyone know what is going in at the corner of Vista and Kootenai where that cool little Moxie Java used to be?

Jack-in-the-Box appears correct.

http://pdsonline.cityofboise.org/pdsonline/Documents.aspx?id=201001131252379140

[Boisekid]

College Game Day is coming to Boise

LARAMIE, Wyo. - The ESPN College GameDay crew jokingly helped Boise State football coach Chris Petersen select blue carpet for his home during a promo for the popular pregame show.
Now the GameDay folks can help Petersen with a much more serious issue.
College GameDay will originate from Boise State for the first time Saturday morning. Later that night, No. 3 Boise State (2-0) will face No. 25 Oregon State (1-1) in a game that will air at 6 p.m. on ABC in a full national broadcast.
The exposure - and the Broncos' performance on that stage - could have a major impact on the Broncos' pursuit of a spot in the BCS National Championship Game.
The Broncos walloped Wyoming 51-6 on Saturday night at War Memorial Stadium. ESPN immediately informed the Broncos of its plans for next weekend.
"About time, is all we got to say," Petersen said. "We've been waiting for them."
Boise State's championship worthiness likely will be a hot topic during the 3-hour pregame show, which is one of college football's signature TV events.
The broadcast on ABC should be valuable, too. The Broncos haven't appeared on ABC since moving to the Football Bowl Subdivision in 1996.
"We've got Oregon State, GameDay - it's a big one," senior nickel Winston Venable said. "Hopefully we'll just get it done."
The Broncos certainly did that in Laramie, where they never gave the Cowboys any hope of pulling an upset.
The Broncos took a 17-0 lead in the first quarter for the second straight game and led 31-0 early in the second quarter. At that point, they had outgained the Cowboys 280 yards to minus-2.
"That's one of the things we always talk about is starting fast," Petersen said. "The kids did a great job of preparing - we took this team very serious. We came out with great energy, great emotion."
The Broncos' effort countered the emotional edge the Cowboys should have had. They had a near-sellout crowd and were playing at home for the first time since the death of freshman linebacker Ruben Narcisse.
The Broncos had struggled in two previous trips to Laramie, in 2002 and 2006.
"One thing that's good about our guys - they always hear what we have to say," Petersen said. "That doesn't always mean that we get it done, but they know this is a tough place to play, they know that if we keep them in it and the crowd gets into it it's a whole different ballgame. So they came ready to play."
The Broncos dominated the game in the trenches.
Their offensive line cranked out 275 rushing yards, including 105 and a touchdown by junior tailback Doug Martin, and didn't allow a sack. Boise State racked up 648 yards - the fifth-most in school history.
Martin, who broke countless tackles, also had 40 receiving yards. He averaged 7.6 yards per touch.
"That's what he does - he's a physical runner," Petersen said. "I thought our O-line did a nice job in the run game of being really physical. I thought that was a physical game by us."
The defensive line also controlled the action. The Cowboys rushed for minus-21 yards and finished with 135 total yards - the lowest total by a Boise State opponent in nearly three years. The Broncos recorded four sacks.
"I would think we have one of the best defensive lines in the country," Venable said. "We're deep at that position and there's some big, physical, mean guys."
Wyoming coach Dave Christensen, whose team lost 34-7 a week earlier at Texas, said the Broncos have "good power on both lines."
"But that's not their only strength," he said. "I'm still trying to figure out where a weakness might be."
His team never found one.
The Cowboys only stopped the Broncos' first-teamers twice - one Kellen Moore interception and one punt.
Moore was 20-of-30 for 370 yards and two touchdowns. He connected with Austin Pettis on a 58-yard touchdown pass on a flea flicker and Titus Young on a 49-yard scoring strike.
The Broncos added scoring drives of 11 and 13 plays in the third quarter.
"They're style points, but they're not necessarily for the nation," Moore said. "It's for us to feel like we're taking care of business and we're able to execute the way we wanted to."
The Broncos will need to execute precisely next week.
Their doubters will be watching.
"We're already talking about (Oregon State)," senior defensive end Ryan Winterswyk said. "Everyone's so excited to play at home right now."


Read more: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/09/19/1345630/boise-states-rout-of-wyoming-secure.html#ixzz100WeQVq8




Great publicity for the city! Lets go Boise State!!! I'll be down at the game!

[Cottonwood]

Their fries cooked in duck fat with black truffle salt are the best!


http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/09/18/1344869/boise-fry-co-to-appear-on-the.html

Boise Fry Co.'s hand-cut fries are getting a special nod on Monday with a guest spot on Alton Brown’s “America’s Best.” The local fries won the best hand-cut fries in the U.S. in a Food Network magazine earlier this year

Read more: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/09/18/1344869/boise-fry-co-to-appear-on-the.html#ixzz106mmSXoI

www.boisefrycompany.com

[Cottonwood]

http://www.usatoday.com/printedition/news/20100921/1astateincome21_st.art.htm

Energy states, Idaho leading comeback
By Dennis Cauchon
USA TODAY

Texas, North Carolina, Idaho and a handful of other states are leading the nation's crawl out of the worst recession since the 1930s, a USA TODAY analysis finds.

Since the recession officially ended in June 2009, a group of about 10 states that have outperformed the nation almost continuously for 25 or more years again is generating new income at a faster pace than the rest of the nation.

"Our pipeline of companies looking to expand or relocate here is the biggest it's been in a decade," says Bibiana Nertney of the Idaho Department of Commerce.

[Boisebro]

http://www.usatoday.com/printedition/news/20100921/1astateincome21_st.art.htm

Energy states, Idaho leading comeback
By Dennis Cauchon
USA TODAY

Texas, North Carolina, Idaho and a handful of other states are leading the nation's crawl out of the worst recession since the 1930s, a USA TODAY analysis finds.

Since the recession officially ended in June 2009, a group of about 10 states that have outperformed the nation almost continuously for 25 or more years again is generating new income at a faster pace than the rest of the nation.

"Our pipeline of companies looking to expand or relocate here is the biggest it's been in a decade," says Bibiana Nertney of the Idaho Department of Commerce.


Bibiana Nertney?

:)

[Cottonwood]

Whole Foods/Downtown hearing is next week with P & Z.


http://www.cityofboise.org/Departments/PDS/PDF/Hearings/Planning%20&%20Zoning%20Commission/Agendas/2010/10-04-10_PZagenda.pdf

[Cottonwood]

The wild things are coming to get us:D

http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/09/26/1356610/


hungry-bear-captured-west-of-boise.htmlHungry bear captured east of Boise Airport
Statesman staff - Idaho Statesman

A 2-year-old, 100-pound bear was spotted in an industrial area near Amity Road and Production Street Sunday afternoon.

Read more: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2010/09/26/1356610/hungry-bear-captured-west-of-boise.html#ixzz10kLgINNC

[andyroo]

BSU is opening up 2 projects downtown


http://news.boisestate.edu/update/2010/09/27/boise-state-city-celebrate-opening-of-greenhouse/

http://news.boisestate.edu/update/2010/09/24/celebrate-center-on-main-opening-with-new-exhibit-on-first-thursday/

[boisecynic]

Thanks for those links, andyroo. I hadn't heard a thing about either.

The Center on Main looks very interesting. It's a project of BSU's College of Social Sciences & Public Affairs. I took a good long look at the Center on Main's website. I can't wait to take a look at their exhibit. And I'm wondering what their agenda might be. This year's first Fettuccine Forum, which is also a College of Social Sciences & Public Affairs project, is titled "Growing a New and Sustainable Food System." In other words, community gardens.

In my opinion, community gardens are a waste of valuable downtown land. Take a look at the community garden on the vacant block owned by First United Methodist at 12th and Fort. It's poorly kept, thousands of goatheads, at best and is contributing nothing to the tax coffers. I thought they were going to make that a parking lot.

[Visualize]

In my opinion, community gardens are a waste of valuable downtown land. Take a look at the community garden on the vacant block owned by First United Methodist at 12th and Fort. It's poorly kept, thousands of goatheads, at best and is contributing nothing to the tax coffers. I thought they were going to make that a parking lot.

!!!!! :tup: !!!!!

[Visualize]

Maybe some of you have heard of this site, but I came upon it recently, and it is absolutely amazing for looking at demographic data in GIS maps. I suggest getting the free trial so you can manipulate some of the variables more, but it is good without that too. I just figured some of you might like to check it out.

http://www.policymap.com/maps

[boisecynic]

Community garden at 12th and Fort versus Hyde Park Place condo project right across the street. Property taxes collectively paid by the 29 unit Hyde Park Place Condos = $65,251/year (2010 estimated). Source http://www.adacountyassessor.org/propsys/AddressSearch.do (1207 W Fort)

Property taxes paid by the community garden = $0.00/year (2010 estimated).

http://imgur.com/KIc9U.jpg

http://imgur.com/XkaQf.jpg

http://imgur.com/g2Xon.jpg

http://imgur.com/sqbfi.jpg